Manually-operated

Describing a device, system, or process that is controlled or powered by human effort, rather than through automatic mechanisms or electronic controls. This often implies a more hands-on approach, requiring physical exertion, direct interaction, and careful manipulation by a person. These systems often contrast with automated or computerized processes that can perform the same tasks with minimal human involvement. The term emphasizes the active role of a person in the operation, highlighting a lack of automation.

Manually-operated meaning with examples

• The old printing press was a manually-operated machine, requiring a strong individual to crank the handle and carefully feed in each sheet of paper. The entire process was dependent on the operator's skill and stamina, representing a stark contrast to the automated printers of today. This method was labor-intensive but produced beautiful letterpress prints.
• Before electricity became common, many household items were manually-operated. People used hand-cranked washing machines, hand-powered food processors, and hand-pumped wells. These tools demonstrated the physical effort necessary for performing everyday tasks, illustrating a different era of domestic life.
• For several years, most train crossing gates were manually-operated, with an attendant at the crossing lowering and raising the gate with a hand crank to ensure safety, which resulted in slower speeds. Modern crossings usually have sensors that detect the presence of a train and operate the gates automatically, speeding up transit times.
• Some classic cars still feature manually-operated windows. This means you need to physically crank a handle to raise or lower the glass, offering a tactile experience that is absent in modern cars with their automatic windows, and is preferred by many car enthusiasts.
• A manually-operated camera, requiring adjustment of the aperture, shutter speed, and focus, offers photographers greater control over the final image. This type of camera permits experimentation that is unachievable with more automated cameras where a person's physical input allows them to hone their craft.